In the last couple of decades a major shift has been happening in transportation. Cars have long been the most likely mode of transport in developed countries, however bikes are beginning to rise in popularity. Perhaps the trend can be put down to 'green' thinking, or maybe just the prices of gas are starting to get to people. The fact is there are plenty more cyclists on the road now than there were just a few years ago. Have you been tempted to use a bike for your everyday transport needs? Here are some hints to help you choose the cycling bicycle that is right for you.
One thing you can consider when choosing a bike is whether or not your feet can rest flat on the floor while you are sitting so you can stop yourself. There are some people that say this isn't the best way to choose, though. They state the best way to choose a bike is to leave a few inches between your feet and the ground so you can have a more comfortable ride. You will likely find that the seat will rest too near the crossbar, if, when you sit on the seat, your knees are bent with your feet flat on the ground, which is an indication that the seat needs to be raised. This is because when you are pedaling with this bike, your knees are going to come up too high. You shouldn't ever sit the seat at the lowest setting, which means sitting on the crossbar. You want to adjust it up a few inches and take those inches into account when you are choosing your bike. You want to have the comfort of the seat being higher up than the crossbar on the bike, because if the seat is sitting on the crossbar, i thought about this you will not be comfortable. The best way to adjust your seat to the correct height is to place your foot on the pedal at the lowest setting and bring the seat up as high as it can go so that your leg is almost fully extended.
It is important you allow for room between you and the crossbar. When selecting a bike make sure you move the seat up slightly, to around a few inches above the height of the crossbar. Make sure you can place both feet on the ground if need be. Each type of bike requires different clearances. As an example, with a touring bike you will only require around 1". With a mountain bike a clearance of 3" will be necessary. Several different factors play into how you are going to choose the right bicycle. Is this a bike you are going to be riding every single day or is it a bike you are only going to ride every now and them? Which height of bike is the most comfortable fit for you? Are you a person who would rather your feet be flat on the ground when you are sitting or would you rather have a little room between your feet and the ground? These are some of the things you need to consider when choosing your bike.